Butter Cookies Recipe
These classic Butter Cookies are a simple, buttery treat perfect for any occasion. With a tender texture and subtle vanilla flavor, they are easy to make and ideal for piping into elegant shapes. Crispy on the edges and soft inside, these cookies pair wonderfully with tea or coffee.
- Author: Natalie
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Cookie Dough
- 1 cup Unsalted butter, softened (use high-quality, name brand butter)
- 1 cup Granulated sugar
- 1 Large egg
- 2 teaspoons Vanilla extract
- 2 cups All-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon Salt
- 1–2 tablespoons Milk (any kind, as needed for consistency)
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside for later use.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl or using a stand mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium-low speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which usually takes a few minutes.
- Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract on medium-low speed until the batter is smooth and well combined.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the mixture, blending just until fully incorporated. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a tender texture.
- Adjust Consistency with Milk: Add milk one tablespoon at a time to achieve a piping consistency. Use the minimum amount needed to ensure the dough holds shape when piped.
- Pipe the Cookies: Transfer the dough into a piping bag and pipe small circles onto the prepared baking sheet. If desired, sprinkle with colorful sprinkles for decoration. Once piped, chill the baking sheets in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes to firm up the dough.
- Bake Cookies: Place the chilled baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies begin to turn golden brown.
- Cool Before Serving: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before serving to ensure they set properly.
Notes
- Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor and texture.
- Do not overmix the dough once the flour is added to keep cookies tender.
- If the dough is too stiff to pipe, add a little more milk gradually.
- Chilling the piped cookies before baking helps them hold their shape.
- Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Keywords: Butter Cookies, Classic Cookies, Vanilla Cookies, Easy Cookies, Cookie Recipe, Homemade Cookies